Canola and Mustard: Diamondback Moth (Plutella xylostella)

Excerpt from Chapter 6, Field Crop Protection Guide, Order this publication

Table of Contents

1. Description
2. Integrated Pest Management Options
• cyhalothrin-lambda – Matador 120 EC and Silencer 120 EC
3. Related links...

Description

The adult is a small, light greyish-brown moth approximately 1 cm long. It is best identified by the white, diamond-shaped markings along its back when the wings are at rest.

Image 1. Diamondback moth adult is best identified by the white, diamond-shaped markings along its back when the wings are at rest.

The larvae are light green-to-yellowish-green with a brown head and are approximately 8 mm long. Larvae will wiggle backward when disturbed or drop from the leaves on a silken thread.

Image 2. Diamondback moth larvae are light green-to-yellowish-green with a brown head. Larvae will wiggle backwards when disturbed.

Integrated Pest Management Options

Damage is most noticeable during dry years. Risk factors include weedy fields and no-till. Cool, cloudy weather reduces moth activity and if this persists, females will die before eggs are laid.

Canola is a valuable honey source and is utilized by honeybees. Bees also polinate the crop. If spraying an insecticide, ensure there are no honey-producing hives in your area.

Comments
Ground and aerial application. Maximum 3 applications/yr, 1 may be by air. Tank-mixing with clay-based fungicides (e.g., Lance or Ronalin) is not recommended as these fungicides may affect insecticide efficacy. Do not apply within 7 days of harvest.

Related links...

• Agronomy Guide for Field Crops - Publication 811
  • Spring and Winter Canola: Diamondback Moth
• Insects
• Canola and Mustard